The here and now, and the impermanence of things

“[…] Another key to cultivating resilience is knowing in which time to live. Both Buddhism and Stoicism remind us that the present is all that exists, and it is the only thing we can control. Instead of worrying about the past or the future, we should appreciate things just as they are in the moment, in the now.

“The only moment in which you can be truly alive is the present moment,” observes the Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh.

In addition to living in the here and now, the Stoics recommend reflecting on the impermanence of the things around us.

The Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius said that the things we love are like the leaves of a tree: They can fall at any moment with a gust of wind. He also said that changes in the world around us are not accidental but rather form part of the essence of the universe—a rather Buddhist notion, in fact.

We should never forget that everything we have and all the people we love will disappear at some point. This is something we should keep in mind, but without giving in to pessimism. Being aware of the impermanence of things does not have to make us sad; it should help us love the present moment and those who surround us.

“All things human are short-lived and perishable,” Seneca tells us.2 The temporary, ephemeral, and impermanent nature of the world is central to every Buddhist discipline.

Keeping this always in mind helps us avoid excessive pain in times of loss.[…]”

I’m just appreciating the poignancy of these words – not just in these troubled times, but throughout all time; because, in my opinion, troubled times usually follow human unrest…

Quote taken from, “Ikigai: the Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life”, by Hector Garcia and Fransesc Miralles.

2 Comments Add yours

  1. Zakiah says:

    Such profound thoughts and words. Loved reading this.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. JojoBean says:

      Me too… it was very soothing!

      Like

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